Acupressure for Agitation, Pain, and Sleep in Mechanically Ventilated ICU Patients

Mechanically ventilated intensive care unit (ICU) patients commonly experience agitation, pain, and sleep disturbances, which may negatively affect recovery and increase the need for sedative medications. Non-pharmacological interventions such as acupressure have been proposed as potential supportive strategies for symptom management in critically ill patients. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of a repeated acupressure program on agitation, pain, and sleep in mechanically ventilated ICU patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an acupressure intervention group or a control group receiving light touch at the same acupoints. The intervention was administered twice daily for four consecutive days. Agitation, pain, and sleep outcomes will be assessed using both subjective and objective measurements, including wearable device-based monitoring. The study also aims to explore the cumulative effects of repeated acupressure intervention during ICU hospitalization.